The WCHA Blog will touch on all aspects of Division I NCAA Men's Ice Hockey, but as the name suggests, this blog will primarily focus on the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, which is home to 10 teams that have combined to win a total of 36 national championships since its inception in 1951.

Monday, July 30, 2007

DU defenseman Seabrook leaves team for WHL

Denver defenseman Keith Seabrook has left the Pioneers and signed with the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL, according to a story posted on USCHO.com. The rumors of Seabrook possibly leaving first started late last week. Seabrook played in 37 games as a freshman last season, registering two goals and 11 assists, and was a 2006 NHL second round draft pick of the Washington Capitals.

His brother Brent played part of five seasons in the WHL and has been a regular on the Chicago Blackhawks' blueline the last two seasons. Both are from Delta, British Columbia.

DU head coach George Gwozdecky had this to say in the USCHO.com article:

"Keith and his family felt the U.S. college hockey development model of practice and games combined with rigorous academics would not benefit his hockey career," Gwozdecky said. "Our development model has proven to be successful and rewarding, and we're looking forward to the 2007-08 season."

Seabrook is the second player to leave DU early this offseason. Senior-to-be Ryan Dingle, who had a team-high 22 goals last year for the Pios, signed a contract with the Anaheim Ducks shortly after last season ended.